10 Breastfeeding Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner

In Honor of World Breastfeeding Week, From a second-time mom, pediatric PT, and adventure-loving former milk maker

When I first started breastfeeding, I truly believed like many that because it was natural, it would just… work. Realistically, it can be hard, frustrating, and at times, downright overwhelming. Now, on the other side of nursing two babies with very different experiences (including NICU stays, a demanding hospital job, and a whole lot of pumping on the go) I wanted to share the top 10 tips I wish someone had told me sooner. Whether you're preparing for your first baby or you're deep in the feeding trenches with your second or third, I hope these little nuggets help lighten your load and remind you: you're doing amazing.

1. Nipple cream is your best friend.

You don’t need to wait until your nipples are cracked and bleeding to reach for it. Apply it early and often, like chapstick for your boobs. Lanolin, coconut oil, or plant-based versions can help soothe and protect your skin while you and baby figure things out.

2. Get a lactation consultant (IBCLC) immediately- and don’t wait for problems.

I cannot stress this enough: if breastfeeding is a priority for you, line up support before you need it. A lactation consultant will help with latch, positioning, comfort, supply issues, and even emotional validation when it all feels like too much. Many parents feel shame asking for help because breastfeeding is “natural,” but let me say this loud and clear: natural doesn’t mean easy. If you're still having challenges, know that local pediatric physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists with feeding training can help, too.

3. Portable pumps are convenient- but not always powerful.

I loved the freedom of my wearable pump with my first… until my supply started dipping. I didn't realize that plug-in pumps generally offer stronger, more consistent suction. By the time I switched, my supply was already on the decline, and I had to rely on my freezer stash after 6 months. With our second, I brought my full-sized plug-in pump to work and stuck with it. This time, I made it well past a year of exclusively providing breast milk. Lesson learned. (PS if you need a pumping bag when returning to work I LOVED this one)

4. Refrigerate pump parts during the day to save your sanity.

You do not need to wash your pump parts after every use! A lesson I wish I knew the first time for our son who I had to exclusively pump for. Store them in a sealed bag or container in the fridge between sessions, and wash them at the end of the day. This trick saved me so much time, especially during long shifts at the hospital.

5. Pump part wipes are life changing for adventuring families.

We’re often out and about, and I didn’t always have access to a clean sink. Disposable pump wipes were a total game changer for keeping things clean on the go and reducing stress around feeding while traveling.

6. Invest in a good combo pumping + nursing bra (especially if you're busty!).

This one is underrated. I absolutely loved the combo bras from Kindred Bravely- especially their busty sizing options, which actually fit and supported my already large chest well. It made pumping and nursing so much easier and more comfortable, whether I was at work or on the move. I honestly still wear them from time to time even being two years past that phase of my life! They are worth every penny!

7. Use a Haakaa or milk catcher during nursing sessions.

I didn’t get the hype at first, but WOW- using a Haakaa while feeding on the opposite side helped me build up a freezer stash with almost no extra effort. Even a little milk adds up over time, and it helps stimulate supply without having to sit through another full pump.

8. Oatmeal actually does help with milk supply.

Oats are rich in iron, fiber, and plant-based compounds that are believed to support lactation. While the research is still growing, one study in the Journal of Human Lactation notes that galactagogues (milk-boosting foods) like oats may have a placebo or hormonal benefit- and when combined with hydration and consistent stimulation (nursing or pumping), they can definitely support supply. Plus an excuse for warm oatmeal cookies? Yes, please.

9. Label your milk stash with more than just the date.

Breast milk is dynamic! It changes based on the time of day, your baby’s needs, and even whether they’re fighting off a cold. If you can, jot down the time or context on your milk bags (ex: “evening, baby sick”), so you can match milk more thoughtfully later on.

10. Freeze in small amounts—and don’t throw away unused milk!

Instead of dumping a full pumping session into one bag, freeze milk in smaller 2 oz portions. It’s much easier for caregivers to top baby off when they’re still hungry without wasting a large thawed bag. And if milk expires? Don’t toss it! You can add it to a bath for a soothing soak, use it on diaper rashes or skin irritation, and make DIY lotion bars or soap (if you’re crafty and into that sort of thing!)

Breastfeeding is beautiful… but also a wild, leaky, emotional ride. I hope these tips give you a little extra confidence and a few more tools to keep going—or permission to pivot with peace if you need to. No matter how you feed your baby, you deserve support. And snacks. Always snacks.